By Emamuzo Iboma
Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State are refusing to return home despite appeals from traditional rulers, citing ongoing security threats. The IDPs, currently taking refuge at a temporary camp in Makurdi International Market, staged a peaceful protest last weekend at the camp gate, insisting they will not leave until the government provides firm assurances of safety.
Over 3,000 residents were displaced on June 14, 2025, following a deadly attack by suspected herder militia, which left more than 200 people dead. Since the massacre, traditional rulers and community stakeholders have reportedly been urging the displaced persons to return, expressing concerns about infiltration of the camp by outsiders. However, the IDPs maintain that returning home without security guarantees is not an option.
Uker Amos, one of the displaced residents, stated, “These infiltrators are taking advantage of humanitarian support meant for Yelwata survivors.” He explained that the protest was in direct response to pressure to return home, noting that their safety remains at risk. “On Saturday, July 5, 2025, we gathered at the camp gate and made it clear—we will not go back until the government guarantees our safety,” he said.
Jacob Segh, the camp manager and a native of Yelwata, confirmed the protest and stressed the need for protection. “The security situation is still precarious. People are still being attacked daily. We cannot return until the government ensures our safety,” he said. The state government, in response, has advised the IDPs to suspend any return plans until further notice.
In a telephone interview, Tema Ager, Information Officer of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), acknowledged that traditional rulers are mounting pressure on the displaced persons. “But the displaced persons are firm—they will only return when the government assures them that their community is safe,” Ager said. He added that the state government plans to hold a meeting to assess the situation and decide on the appropriate time for a safe return.
The camp has become a centre of humanitarian activity, with individuals and groups visiting regularly to offer donations. However, concerns about unauthorized access remain. Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde, recently raised concerns over the infiltration of the camp by market women, criminals, and some members of the host community. He disclosed that about 50 infiltrators have been arrested so far.
